If you'd like to admire Slovenia's magnificent castles and palaces or enjoy the country's impressive nature, you should definitely include the municipality of Bled in your travel plans.
Bled Island: Church of the Assumption of Mary
Above Lake Bled rises a striking cliff, crowned by the Church of the Assumption of Mary. The island is traditionally reached by the so-called Pletna, a rowing boat that has been crossing the lake since as far back as 1590. Once on the island, you'll find the church, built in the 15th century, which presents an impressive sight with its golden ornamentation. The freestanding bell tower is particularly worth seeing, offering a wide view over the surrounding nature.
Next to the church stands the former sexton's house, which was combined with the provost's residence into a single building in the 20th century. Since 2012, it has housed the so-called Potičnica, an eatery offering traditional Slovenian "potica". This is made from yeast dough with various fillings, rolled up and baked in a special baking tin (the "potičnica"). You can find more information on Slovenia's culinary specialities in our guide.
Bled Castle: Slovenia's oldest castle
The history of Bled Castle dates back to the year 1011. Originally, it consisted only of a tower with a protective wall and was used by bishops as a defensive structure. Between 1951 and 1961, the castle underwent extensive renovation. Today it houses, among other things, a servants' house, a courtyard, a historic castle printing house, and a castle wine cellar.
In the castle printing house, visitors can learn about the traditional printing process and create their own souvenir certificate. In the castle wine cellar, wine lovers have the chance to bottle a bottle of wine by hand and seal it with wax.
You can also visit the well carved into the rock, explore the Stolp Gallery, and discover the Arnold Rikli memorial room and the exhibition of the Museums of the Gorenjska Region. Products from the castle beehive also make a special souvenir.
The castle offers insights into Bled's oldest history and presents the living culture of past eras. During the summer months, cultural events such as medieval days are also held, in which historical scenes are re-enacted.
Castle Chapel
In the upper castle courtyard stands the Gothic chapel from the 16th century, dedicated to the bishops St. Albuin and St. Ingenuin. Since the 17th century, Baroque figures and murals have adorned the chapel. These depict, among others, Emperor Henry II and his consort. From the castle, you'll also enjoy an impressive view of Bled Island, the town, and the alpine mountains of Gorenjska.
If this attraction has sparked your interest further, it's also worth exploring the surrounding mountains through various outdoor activities.
Vintgar Gorge
The Vintgar Gorge lies about four kilometres northwest of Bled. It was shaped by the Radovna River and runs between the mountains Hom and Boršt. Along the hiking trail, visitors can admire rapids and waterfalls. Two striking structures also catch the eye: a dam and the stone arch bridge of the Bohinj Railway. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a train crossing the bridge.
If you'd like to experience even more nature, it's worth planning several days in Triglav National Park in addition to the Vintgar Gorge.
More action-packed adventures in Bled
Besides its historical sights, Bled offers numerous outdoor activities. In summer, the lake invites you to swim, while diving enthusiasts will find ideal conditions at depths of up to 36 metres.
For thrill-seekers, activities such as canyoning are available. In winter, there's also the opportunity to climb frozen waterfalls under professional guidance.
Those who prefer to take it easy can explore the forests around Bled through geocaching, join a city tour, take a hot air balloon ride, or go fishing. Horseback riding trips and extended hikes are also popular leisure activities. Bled thus offers diverse experiences for visitors of all ages.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
When travelling to Slovenia, please note the applicable toll regulations: vehicles up to 3.5 t gross weight require a vignette on motorways and expressways, vehicles over 3.5 t gross weight pay the distance-based toll via DarsGo, and a special toll applies for the Karawanks Tunnel. With our Vignette Flat Rate, we conveniently register your digital vignette for Slovenia in advance, so you're covered throughout your entire trip. You can find more information on the toll and vehicle classes in our guide. If you have any questions, you can reach us at any time by email.
About the author
Michelle Albrecht